Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French cinema star and animal rights activist, passed away on Sunday at the age of 91. Her funeral is scheduled for January 7, 2024, in the renowned French Riviera resort of Saint-Tropez, a location she significantly popularized during her career. Local authorities have announced that the ceremony will be held at the town hall and will be broadcast on large screens in the port and central square, allowing fans and admirers to pay their respects.
The burial will take place privately at the local cemetery, which offers a picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea. Following the burial, there will be a public homage to celebrate Bardot’s life and legacy. Having retired from cinema in 1973, she spent over five decades residing in Saint-Tropez, where she became a beloved figure.
Notable Developments in French Citizenship
In a separate announcement, the French government revealed that Hollywood couple George and Amal Clooney, along with their twins, have been granted French citizenship. The naturalization was confirmed in the Journal Officiel over the past weekend. Amal Clooney, a renowned human rights lawyer, was approved under her maiden name, Amal Alamuddin.
The Clooneys purchased an estate in France in 2021, which they have since designated as their primary residence. In an interview with Esquire, George Clooney expressed concerns about raising their children in Hollywood, indicating a preference for a quieter lifestyle in France.
Hollywood Highlights and Controversies
The entertainment world is currently abuzz with the release of a new documentary featuring Chevy Chase. Titled “I’m Chevy Chase and You’re Not,” the film explores the actor’s multifaceted personality and career. Directed by Marina Zenovich, the documentary delves into Chase’s journey from a troubled childhood to his rise on “Saturday Night Live” and later success in Hollywood. Premiering on CNN on January 1, 2024, the film also includes commentary from notable figures such as Dan Aykroyd and Beverly D’Angelo.
In a separate legal matter, actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry is facing allegations from actor Mario Rodriguez, who claims he was assaulted by Perry between 2014 and 2019. Recent text messages obtained by the Associated Press reveal that the two maintained contact years after the alleged incidents, with Rodriguez reaching out to Perry for assistance. Perry’s legal team has dismissed the lawsuit as a “money grab scam,” and the actor has firmly denied the allegations.
In terms of accolades, Hollywood stars Idris Elba and Cynthia Erivo have been recognized in King Charles III’s New Year’s honors list. Elba received a knighthood for his contributions to youth services, particularly through the Elba Hope Foundation, which addresses critical issues such as education and poverty.
As the year concludes, Hollywood has seen strong ticket sales, particularly for films like “Avatar: Fire and Ash” and “Marty Supreme.” James Cameron’s latest installment in the Avatar franchise amassed approximately $88 million over the four-day holiday weekend, while “Marty Supreme,” a drama set in the 1950s, earned around $27.1 million.
Overall, the entertainment landscape reflects a mix of celebration and controversy as it heads into the new year, with significant events and developments shaping the industry.
